The objectives of this paper are to review previous research on methods for data collection and to report experience in collecting data, on the sexual behavior of urban low‐income, African American and Hispanic youth. The results of this review indicate that data on sexual behavior in these populations can be collected in face‐to‐face interviews, and clinical language can be used to ask questions about intercourse. However, anal intercourse may be a sensitive topic for both males and females in these populations, and oral intercourse is a sensitive topic for females. Finally, particular care must be taken in interviews with Hispanic women because of their greater sensitivity about topics involving sexuality and menstruation.